PHARTS Podcast

You're mid-combo, nailing your choreography, and suddenly—snap! The floor shifts beneath you, pain shoots up your leg, and your rehearsal dreams hit pause. This week on Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT—dance medicine specialist and performer—dives deep into one of the most common and frustrating injuries for musical theatre artists: the ankle sprain. Whether you're a dancer landing from a tour jeté, a singer gliding across stage in character heels, or an actor pivoting during a quick scene change, your ankles are the unsung heroes of your performance. Learn how to spot the difference between a mild twist and a true sprain, why these injuries happen so often onstage, and what the science says about your recovery timeline. We'll also unpack research showing that up to 70% of dancers experience an ankle injury during their career (Steinberg et al., Tel Aviv University, 2011) and discuss how even minor sprains can affect balance, mobility, and confidence long after the swelling fades. This episode walks you through: The anatomy behind a sprain (why the ATFL is always in the spotlight) What the healing phases really look like for performers How to safely return to turns, jumps, and stage movement Evidence-based prevention tools that keep you performing pain-free ✨ Referenced Research: Steinberg, N., Hershkovitz, I., et al. (2011). Injuries in Dancers: Prevalence and Patterns. Tel Aviv University, Israel. Fong, D. T.-P., et al. (2009). A Systematic Review on Ankle Injury and Sprain in Sports. Sports Medicine, 39(1), 73–94. Garrick, J. G. (2017). Ankle Sprains and Chronic Instability in Athletes. Clinics in Sports Medicine, 36(1), 13–28.

In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), host Dr. Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, performer and dance medicine specialist, takes you behind the curtain of one of the most common — and emotionally challenging — injuries in the performing arts: the ankle fracture. From the heartbreaking “crack” mid-performance to the long road back to dancing, singing, and acting at full strength, Jenna dives into the science, the rehab, and the artistry of recovery. You'll learn: ✨ Why dancers, singers, and actors are all at risk for ankle fractures

In this episode of the PHARTs Podcast, we explore the vital role physical therapy plays in enhancing the health, longevity, and performance capacity of artists across disciplines. Physical therapy isn't just about recovering from injuries—it's a proactive strategy that supports performers in optimizing movement, preventing injuries, improving resilience, and sustaining long, thriving careers in dance, theater, music, and beyond. We break down how targeted PT interventions—such as biomechanical assessment, movement retraining, strength and flexibility programming, and performance-specific conditioning—can help performers move more efficiently and perform with confidence. Whether you're managing chronic pain, returning from injury, or seeking ways to refine technique and stamina, this episode sheds light on how physical therapy enhances both physical and artistic expression.

Pilates is no longer just a cross-training option—it's a performance-changing tool. In this episode of the Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTs) Podcast, we explore how Pilates is transforming the way performers train, rehabilitate, and sustain their careers. From improved core integration and alignment to injury prevention, breath control, and longevity on stage, Pilates has become a foundational practice for dancers, actors, singers, and musicians alike. We break down why Pilates works so well for performers, how it supports both physical and mental resilience, and how it bridges the gap between rehabilitation and peak performance. Whether you're recovering from an injury, preparing for auditions, or looking to move more efficiently and confidently, this episode highlights why Pilates has earned its place in the performing arts world.

AC joint injuries can quietly sabotage your performance, from dancers lifting arms overhead, actors performing stage combat, to singers holding props or standing for extended periods. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, dance medicine specialist and performer, explains how to identify, treat, and prevent AC joint injuries. Topics covered include: Prevalence in performers: 8–12% of dancers, 10–15% of actors, and 7–10% of singers (Micheli et al., Boston, 2016; Fryer, Australia, 2018; Ackermann et al., Sydney, 2017) Traumatic vs. overuse injuries Physical therapy strategies: manual therapy, scapular and rotator cuff strengthening, mobility restoration, and stage-specific return-to-dance training Prevention tips to maintain healthy, expressive arm lines

Achilles tendinopathy is the performer's silent antagonist—creeping up mid-leap, in chase scenes, or just while standing in character shoes. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, dance medicine specialist and performer, walks dancers, singers, actors, and musicians through understanding, treating, and preventing Achilles tendon pain. You'll learn: Why 12% of dancers, 15–18% of actors, and 10% of singers experience Achilles issues (Hawkins & Beyer, London, 2019; Ackermann et al., Sydney, 2017) How overuse, footwear, and rehearsal patterns contribute to tendon stress Physical therapy strategies including eccentric strengthening, mobility work, and performance-specific training Prevention tips to keep your tendon healthy for years of performing

Episode Title: Act I: The Ache That Steals the Spotlight Low back pain can silence your artistry—but it doesn't have to steal your spotlight. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT—dance medicine specialist, performer, and founder of Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy (JKPT)—dives into the world of low back pain for dancers, singers, and actors. You'll hear about: Why 67% of dancers, 54% of singers, and 52% of actors experience low back pain (Sweeney & McAuley, University of Hertfordshire, UK, 2016; Angadi et al., Ohio State University, 2019; Fryer, Australia, 2018) How technique habits, posture, and overuse lead to pain The role of performing arts physical therapy in recovery and prevention (Smith et al., Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, NYC, 2021) How guided movement can speed recovery by 30% (O'Sullivan et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2020) Whether you're mastering Hamilton choreography, belting out Defying Gravity, or performing an intense monologue in Hadestown, this episode gives you the tools to stay strong, pain-free, and in the spotlight.

How can performing arts medicine better support trans and gender-diverse performers? In this episode of The Performers Happiness in the Arts Podcast (Pharts Podcast), host Jenna Kantor — performer and physical therapist — explores what true trans-inclusive care looks like in physical therapy and the performing arts world. Jenna discusses how healthcare providers can affirm identity from the first interaction, adapt care for hormone therapy and surgery recovery, and create safer, more empowering spaces for every performer. You'll also learn practical tips for trans and nonbinary performers on finding supportive, knowledgeable providers who understand both your art and your body. Because inclusivity isn't just good healthcare — it's good artistry.

Getting injured mid-show is scary — especially when your production doesn't cover medical care. In this episode, Jenna Kantor, performer and physical therapist, shares practical tips and insider tricks for finding affordable, accessible healthcare and physical therapy as a performer without insurance coverage. You'll learn how to: -Use Direct Access to see a physical therapist right away -Find cash pay and out-of-network options that actually save you money -Tap into performer-specific support networks for affordable care -Advocate for yourself and your health in a system that often overlooks artists Because your health and your artistry go hand in hand.

In this episode of The Performers Happiness in the Arts Podcast (Pharts Podcast), host Jenna Kantor — performer and physical therapist — explores how burnout shows up in your body and why ignoring fatigue can increase your risk for injury. You'll learn: - How chronic stress disrupts recovery and performance - Why burnout isn't a mindset issue — it's a body issue too - Simple, actionable ways to restore energy and protect your physical health If you've ever pushed through exhaustion because “the show must go on,” this episode will help you reconnect with your body and rediscover joy in your craft.